In Arizona, hunters face significant challenges and losses due to unforeseen natural events like wildfires, with little to no recourse available for the loss of hunting opportunities. In particular, when the Dragon Bravo Fire forced the closure of Unit 12A at the North Kaibab National Forest, it had a profound impact on families, including mine. This incident disrupted a highly anticipated, once-in-a-lifetime bison hunt for many dedicated hunters, leaving them without options and fair compensation.

Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) currently does not provide hunters with sufficient relief measures such as refunds, hunting tag deferrals, or point reinstatements in cases affected by natural events unless they have opted for the PointGuard option which does not always help if you had low points. In stark contrast, many other states have implemented hunter-friendly policies that acknowledge the unpredictability of nature, offering avenues of compensation and relief without additional pre-purchased protection.

This lack of policy not only puts financial strain on Arizona hunters but also dampens the spirits of outdoor enthusiasts who invest time, money, and passion into these hunts. Ensuring that hunters can have relief similar to other states will foster a culture of respect and fairness in Arizona's hunting community.

By signing this petition, you will urge the Arizona Game and Fish Department to adopt more fair and accommodating policies similar to those in other states, providing hunters the needed support in the wake of natural occurrences. Policies should include reasonable options like tag deferrals, refunds, or reinstatement of points without the pre-requirement of a PointGuard purchase. These changes will create a more supportive and sustainable hunting environment in Arizona.

Join us in calling for action from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Your signature will help advocate for change and demonstrate the collective demand for fair and equitable hunting regulations in the state, ensuring hunters are not left without options due to unforeseen events. Sign the petition today to support a fairer approach to hunting relief policies in Arizona.